Whakatane boat builder Extreme Boats is in the middle of making a new boat for the Whakatane Port.

Expressions of interest from boat builders around the country were called for from the Whakatane District Council, with three companies invited to tender.

The current Whakatane Port Boat. (Whakatane District Council)

Extreme Boats is in the process of building an 8.5 meter custom designed hull, constructed of durable aluminium – essential for river operations.

The hull also features a full walk-around deck, with a number of fittings, electronics, and communication devices.

Council plans on using the existing Evinrude Ecotech motors from the existing Port Whakatane II.

The vessel is currently undergoing paint works, which will be followed by a two week fit-out of all the boats equipment.

Sketch of the proposed new vessel. (Whakatane District Council)